Police are warning pensioners to be on their guard against rogue builders.

Cleveland Police issued the warning, particularly to elderly residents of the Springbank and Sunnybank area of Ormesby, Middlesbrough, following two recent reports of extortionate prices being charged for poor quality jobs.

A police spokeswoman said: "These jobbing builders have no qualifications and are no more than cowboys targeting the elderly and infirm."

She added police have received reports of elderly residents being intimidated into making payments, due to threats to themselves or their properties.

The spokeswoman added pensioners have been persuaded to go by taxi or be transported by the men to a bank to get cash.

"It is often the case the victims are too frightened to call the police," she added.

Police are asking neighbours of elderly residents to be vigilant on their behalf by obtaining as much information as possible and contacting police on 01642 326326.